Despite that, all of the slideshows were stunners, filled with shots of snow-choked cliff lines and huge airs. Blake Jorgenson, who shot local athletes Dan Treadway, Kye Petersen, and Matty Richard, was named King of Storms. Robin O’Neill, the first women ever invite to compete, came in second with her detailed look at two female skiers, including Whistler Blackcomb patroller Darlene Douglas. Young gun Andrew Strain, who had the most active, and rowdiest cheering section, placed third, and Ilja Herb’s photo of a stormy, light-shot gap won Best in Show.

“As a photographer, I never choose the photos that get printed. It’s always somebody else’s choice,” Jorgenson said. “To come up with a concept and bring it to life exactly the way I want, in front of a home crowd, is the best thing ever.”-Heather Hansman